US20050126995A1 - Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method - Google Patents
Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050126995A1 US20050126995A1 US11/035,209 US3520905A US2005126995A1 US 20050126995 A1 US20050126995 A1 US 20050126995A1 US 3520905 A US3520905 A US 3520905A US 2005126995 A1 US2005126995 A1 US 2005126995A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- compartment
- effluent
- liquids
- mix liquor
- tank
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/12—Activated sludge processes
- C02F3/1205—Particular type of activated sludge processes
- C02F3/121—Multistep treatment
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/12—Activated sludge processes
- C02F3/1205—Particular type of activated sludge processes
- C02F3/1221—Particular type of activated sludge processes comprising treatment of the recirculated sludge
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/12—Activated sludge processes
- C02F3/1236—Particular type of activated sludge installations
- C02F3/1242—Small compact installations for use in homes, apartment blocks, hotels or the like
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F3/00—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F3/02—Aerobic processes
- C02F3/12—Activated sludge processes
- C02F3/22—Activated sludge processes using circulation pipes
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
- Y02W10/00—Technologies for wastewater treatment
- Y02W10/10—Biological treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
Definitions
- the present invention relates in general to an improved system for processing wastewater, and in particular to an improved aerobic system and method for processing and managing wastewater effluent.
- Biological treatments have been used in a wide variety of applications.
- the treatment involves contacting wastewater with a consortium (community) of microorganisms that utilize dissolved organic substances as nutrients.
- a consortium communicates with microorganisms that utilize dissolved organic substances as nutrients.
- three main activities occur: reduction of biological oxygen demand (B.O.D reduction), nitrification and denitrification of the organic waste. All three processes are affected by bacteria, the former two—by aerobic bacteria, and the latter—by anaerobic (anoxic) bacteria.
- this system typically comprises alternating aerobic and anaerobic stages in which incremental reduction in the organic carbon and nitrogen content of the sewage is accomplished in each stage. This enables the system to maintain the organic carbon after the B.O.D. reduction stages at a sufficient level for denitrification without adding an additional source of carbon.
- Systems of this type are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,994,802; 3,945,918; 4,279,753; 4,564,457 and 4,374,730.
- the combined systems for biological treatment of sewage hitherto known are designed to include the use of aeration and/or agitation means during the aerobic stage of the treatment for the purpose of reduction of the time required for nitrification.
- Nearly all prior art sewage purification systems require that sooner or later the system be closed down to allow removal of sludge that has not been fully treated and has accumulated in the processing vessels.
- Large municipal treatment plants have the equipment and personnel to carry out this work.
- small-scale systems intended for the use of a single house or housing blocks are better served by arrangements that almost completely dispose of organic solids and so do not require such servicing.
- Humphrey discloses a complex sanitation system provided with many vessels, five of which have multiple air entry orifices. The resulting high air consumption necessitates the installation of a large air blower or compressor, leading to high running costs and a noise suppression problem. Another difficulty encountered in the Humphrey system is finding space in a residential building for all the described system components.
- Cawley describes and claims a process for purifying and recycling household wastewaters, comprising the steps of (a) collecting a first wastewater stream from household kitchen sources; (b) anaerobically digesting said first wastewater stream in a first septic tank; (c) collecting a second wastewater stream from household laundry and bathing sources; (d) combining water from steps (b), (c) and (h); (e) anaerobically digesting water from step (d) in a second septic tank; (f) pumping water from step (e) over a biological sand filter under aerobic conditions; (g) pumping biologically filtered water from step (f) through an ultra-filter, thereby separating the biologically filtered water into a retentate stream and a permeate stream; (h) returning said retentate stream to step (d); (i) disinfecting said permeate stream; (j) returning a first portion of said disinfected permeate stream to household laundry and bathing facilities; (k) separating a second portion of said disinfecte
- Kuwashima proposes a pair of separator tanks, which are used alternately for separating floating or sedimenting material; the organic material is transferred for aerobic decomposition to a third tank.
- the device lacks means for breaking up large solids into small particles for efficient decomposition.
- One embodiment of a wastewater processing and treatment system constructed in accordance with the present invention utilizes aerobic bacteria in two separate compartments to break down and digest waste. This system is much more efficient than those that use the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria.
- the first settling compartment is non-existent in conventional aerobic units.
- the first settling compartment allows for settling of heavy particles and keeps floating debris out of the pump that is located in the mix liquor compartment.
- 100% of the liquid is blended with air several times per hour in the mix liquor compartment, again tremendously increasing the efficiency and performance of the overall unit.
- the pump intakes at the bottom of the mix liquor compartment allow the pump to remove sludge build-up, which is a significant problem on all other conventional aerobic treatment units. No particles of a significant size can remain in the mix liquor compartment without being blended with air.
- Oxygen being heavier than H2O, settles to the bottom of the tank. This concentration of oxygen, as high as 90% dissolved, inhibits the development of sludge at the bottom of the tank.
- Sludge is generally made of organic particles that settle to the bottom and anaerobic bacteria. The oxygen present in the bottom of the tank allows the aerobic bacteria to multiply and consume the organic particles and the anaerobic bacteria. Therefore the present aerobic unit will have a minimal amount of sludge build up.
- FIG. 1 is a sectional side view of a first embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a sectional side view of a second embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a sectional side view of a third embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a sectional side view of a fourth embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of another embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a sectional side view of yet another embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- System 11 comprises a generally rectangular tank 14 (e.g., a septic tank) having four side walls, a bottom, and a top with resealable access ports 12 .
- the tank 14 also has four compartments 13 , 15 , 17 , 19 , and each compartment is separated by partitions that are located within tank 14 .
- Wastewater or sewage indicated by arrow 21 , enters system 11 at entry port 23 in a conventional manner and generally flows left to right as it is processed and bio-nutrients are removed, until reclaimed water is produced and exits system 11 at exit port 25 . The discharge is then distributed in a conventional manner.
- wastewater 21 As wastewater 21 enters system 11 via attached plumbing (not shown), it contains both organic matter and human waste, which is also known as effluent.
- the effluent is deposited through entry port 23 directly into the first compartment, or trash tank 13 .
- trash tank 13 the effluent is initially processed and broken down into suspended solids and liquids, which are partially digested by aerobic bacteria (not shown). Aerobic bacteria, rather than the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria, is used to break down and digest the waste.
- first settling compartment 15 all heavier solids settle out of the liquid and remain in compartment 15 . These solids then continue to undergo digestion by the aerobic bacteria located in compartment 15 .
- Tube 35 delivers its contents into a vertical pipe 41 , which is located in the third compartment, or the mix liquor compartment 17 .
- a horizontal base pipe 43 is interconnected to the lower end of vertical pipe 41 to form a T-shaped union. As shown in FIG. 2 , base pipe 43 rests on the floor of mix liquor compartment 17 and generally extends from side wall to side wall inside mix liquor compartment 17 of system 11 .
- Base pipe 43 has a plurality of apertures 45 that face the floor of compartment 17 . Ideally, there are four symmetrically spaced-apart apertures 45 in base pipe 43 .
- this intake system contributes to prevent an accumulation of sludge at the bottom of mix liquor compartment 17 , such that only a very small residual amount of sludge (approximately 2% or less by volume in the mix liquor compartment, in one embodiment) is ever present in compartment 17 . This is a very significant improvement over prior art systems, which typically have a sludge presence of approximately 20%.
- a pump 47 is located at the upper end of pipe 41 and draws in all liquids and suspended solids from within compartment 17 and tube 35 .
- the contents of compartment 17 circulate up through apertures 45 into pipe 41 and pump 47 .
- Pump 47 circulates the liquids and suspended solids through a spin filter 49 to further separate any solids larger than 200 microns.
- Air is blended into the filtrated liquid and suspended solids via an air intake device 51 wherein they are thoroughly blended with air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside of system 11 .
- a portion (approximately 30% in one embodiment) of this blended mixture of suspended solids, liquid, and air, also known as aerated precipitate, is discharged into the trash tank 13 via a hose 53 .
- the introduction air into trash tank 13 via hose 53 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic solids, as described above.
- Two features of this embodiment of the present invention are (1) the maintenance of a high level of oxygen content in two of the compartments (trash tank 13 and mix liquor compartment 17 ), and (2) the virtually complete elimination of sludge in mix liquor compartment 17 . Because of these significant advantages, the overall size of system 11 is much smaller than conventional wastewater processing and treatment devices. System 11 is buried in earth at a depth of approximately 46 inches. This depth is approximately 36 inches less than conventional units and offers a significant savings in earth excavation costs.
- System 111 is very similar to the previously described system 11 , except for two variations: system 111 does not have a spin filter, and there is no aeration in trash tank 113 . Instead, system 111 blends air into the unfiltrated liquid and suspended solids via a single air intake device 155 wherein they are thoroughly blended with air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside of system 111 . No portion of this blended mixture of suspended solids, liquid, and air, also known as aerated precipitate, is discharged into the trash tank 113 .
- System 211 is most similar to the previously described system 11 , except for one variation: system 211 does not have a first settling compartment between its trash tank 213 and its mix liquor compartment 217 . Instead, system 211 draws effluent directly from trash tank 213 , via an elongated tube 235 with a vertical conduit extending from the lower end of trash tank 213 , directly into pipe 241 and pump 247 .
- the other elements of system 211 including the pumping, circulation, aeration, and discharge, work in the same manner as those described above for system 11 .
- System 411 comprises a generally rectangular tank 414 with four compartments 413 , 415 , 417 , 419 . Each compartment is separated by walls or partitions that are located within the tank 414 . Three resealable risers or access ports 412 a, b, c are located on top of the tank 414 . Port 412 a provides access to compartments 413 and 415 , port 412 b provides access to compartment 417 , and port 412 c provides access to compartment 419 .
- Wastewater or sewage enters system 411 at entry port 423 in a conventional manner and, as depicted in FIG. 5 , generally flows from left to right as it is processed and bio-nutrients are removed, until reclaimed water is produced and exits system 411 at exit port 425 . The discharge is then distributed in a conventional manner.
- wastewater 421 enters system 411 via attached plumbing (not shown), it contains both organic matter and human waste, which is also known as effluent.
- the untreated effluent is deposited through entry port 423 directly into the first compartment, or trash tank 413 .
- trash tank 413 the effluent is initially processed and broken down into suspended solids and liquids, which are partially digested by aerobic bacteria (not shown). Aerobic bacteria, rather than the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria, are used to break down and digest the waste.
- first settling compartment 415 all heavier solids settle out of the liquid and remain in compartment 415 . These solids then continue to undergo digestion by the aerobic bacteria located in compartment 415 .
- conduit 435 comprises a horizontal pipe with a 90 degree elbow on one end that protrudes down into the first settling compartment 415 .
- An air hole 439 is formed in the elbow of conduit 435 .
- Conduit 435 delivers its contents into a reservoir 441 (e.g., a large vertically-oriented pipe), which is located in the third compartment, or the mix liquor compartment 417 .
- a reservoir 441 e.g., a large vertically-oriented pipe
- An optional horizontal base pipe may be joined to the lower end of 441 to form a T-shaped union.
- Reservoir 441 (and/or the base pipe) has a plurality of apertures 445 that face the floor of the mix liquor compartment 417 .
- This intake system contributes to prevent an accumulation of sludge at the bottom of mix liquor compartment 417 , such that only a very small residual amount of sludge (approximately 2% or less by volume of the mix liquor compartment, in one embodiment) is ever present in mix liquor compartment 417 .
- a pump 447 such as a centrifugal pump, is located inside the reservoir 441 near its lower end adjacent to apertures 445 .
- electrical power is provided to system 411 through riser 412 b .
- Pump 447 draws in all liquids and suspended solids (indicated by arrows 444 ) from the bottom of mix liquor compartment 417 and the liquid 433 from conduit 435 .
- the contents 444 of mix liquor compartment 417 circulate through apertures 445 into reservoir 441 and up through pump 447 .
- Pump 447 circulates the liquids and suspended solids 433 , 444 through an aeration device 450 , such as a venturi aeration device.
- Air is thoroughly blended into the liquid and suspended solids to produce oxygenated effluent (indicated by arrows 454 ).
- An air intake device 451 is provided for supplying oxygen to the aeration device 450 .
- air intake device 451 comprises a hose that extends from port 412 b down into reservoir 441 and to aeration device 450 to provide air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside of system 411 .
- the oxygenated effluent 454 of suspended solids, liquid, and air also known as aerated precipitate, flows out of aeration device 450 into a pipe 452 that is also located within reservoir 441 .
- a portion (approximately 30%, in one embodiment) of the oxygenated effluent 454 is discharged into the trash tank 413 via a conduit 453 .
- the introduction of air into trash tank 413 via conduit 453 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic solids, as described above.
- the bulk of the oxygenated effluent 454 flowing through pipe 452 (which was not discharged into trash tank 413 ) is discharged back into the mix liquor compartment 417 through a conduit 457 .
- the introduction of air into compartment 417 via conduit 457 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic material, again virtually eliminating the presence of sludge in compartment 417 .
- the ends of both conduits 453 , 457 are capped but have a plurality of small nozzles to discharge the oxygenated effluent 454 into their respective compartments 413 , 317 .
- All of the liquid and suspended solids in mix liquor compartment 417 are continuously pulled into pump 447 from the bottom of compartment 417 and circulated with air from the air intake device 451 , thereby blending with air several times per hour. This process of mixing aerobic bacteria, air, and effluent increases the bacterial digestion of the organic solids. By drawing the liquid and solids from the bottom of compartment 417 and aerating them, the build-up of sludge in compartment 417 is eliminated.
- the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in the solution or treated effluent (indicated by arrow 456 ) have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge from system 411 .
- the treated effluent 456 flows from the bottom of compartment 417 , through an opening 461 in partition 463 , and into a second settling compartment or stilling compartment 419 . If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in this compartment, which, optionally, may be provided with an incline (not shown) as described above for the previous embodiments. Once any heavier particles have settled, the treated effluent 456 then exits the system 411 at the top of stilling compartment 419 through outlet port 425 .
- Two features of this embodiment of the present invention are (1) the maintenance of a high level of oxygen content in two of the compartments (trash tank 413 and mix liquor compartment 417 ), and (2) the virtually complete elimination of sludge in mix liquor compartment 417 . Because of these significant advantages, the overall size of system 411 is much smaller than conventional wastewater processing and treatment devices.
- the tank 414 of system 411 has a height of approximately 46 inches, and a height of approximately 50 inches when measured to the top of the ports 412 . This depth is approximately 36 inches less than conventional units and offers a significant savings in earth excavation costs.
- System 511 comprises a generally rectangular tank having four compartments 513 , 515 , 517 , 519 . Each compartment is separated by walls or partitions that are located within the tank. Three resealable risers or access ports 512 a, b, c are located on top of the tank. Port 512 a provides access to compartments 513 and 515 , port 512 b provides access to compartment 517 , and port 512 c provides access to compartment 519 .
- Wastewater or sewage enters system 511 at entry port 523 in a conventional manner and generally flows from left to right as it is processed and bio-nutrients are removed, until reclaimed water is produced and exits system 511 at exit port 525 .
- the discharge is then distributed in a conventional manner.
- wastewater 521 As wastewater 521 enters system 511 via attached plumbing (not shown), it contains both organic matter and human waste, which is also known as effluent.
- the untreated effluent is deposited through entry port 523 directly into the first compartment, or trash tank 513 .
- trash tank 513 the effluent is initially processed and broken down into suspended solids and liquids, which are partially digested by aerobic bacteria (not shown). Aerobic bacteria, rather than the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria, are used to break down and digest the waste.
- first settling compartment 515 all heavier solids settle out of the liquid and remain in compartment 515 . These solids then continue to undergo digestion by the aerobic bacteria located in compartment 515 .
- Liquids 533 flows through opening 535 into the third compartment, or the mix liquor compartment 517 , where it is drawn downward toward a pump 547 .
- a base pipe with optional apertures may be used as well.
- the design of this intake system contributes to prevent an accumulation of sludge at the bottom of mix liquor compartment 517 , such that only a very small residual amount of sludge (approximately 2% or less by volume of the mix liquor compartment, in one embodiment) is ever present in mix liquor compartment 517 .
- the pump 547 (e.g., a centrifugal pump) is located near the bottom of mix liquor compartment 517 .
- Pump 547 draws in liquids 533 , and liquids and suspended solids (indicated by arrows 544 ) from the bottom of mix liquor compartment 517 .
- the contents 544 of mix liquor compartment 517 circulate up through pump 547 .
- Pump 547 circulates the liquids and suspended solids 533 , 544 through an aeration device 550 , such as a venturi aeration device. Air is thoroughly blended into the liquid and suspended solids to produce oxygenated effluent (indicated by arrows 554 ).
- An air intake device 551 is provided for supplying oxygen to the aeration device 550 .
- the air intake device 551 may comprise a hose that extends from port 512 b down to aeration device 550 to provide air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside of system 511 .
- the oxygenated effluent 554 of suspended solids, liquid, and air also known as aerated precipitate, flows out of aeration device 550 into a pipe 552 .
- a portion (approximately 30%, in one embodiment) of the oxygenated effluent 554 is discharged into settling compartment 515 via a conduit 553 .
- the introduction of air into settling compartment 515 via conduit 553 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic solids, as described above.
- the bulk of the oxygenated effluent 554 flowing through pipe 552 (which was not discharged into settling compartment 515 ) is discharged back into the mix liquor compartment 517 through a conduit 557 .
- the introduction of air into compartment 517 via conduit 557 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic material, again virtually eliminating the presence of sludge in compartment 517 .
- the ends of both conduits 553 , 557 are capped but have a plurality of small nozzles to discharge the oxygenated effluent 554 into their respective compartments 513 , 517 .
- the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in the solution or treated effluent have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge from system 511 .
- the treated effluent 556 flows from the bottom of compartment 517 , through an opening 561 in partition 563 , and into a second settling compartment or stilling compartment 519 . If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in this compartment, which, optionally, may be provided with an incline (not shown) as described above for the previous embodiments. Once any heavier particles have settled, the treated effluent 556 then exits the system 511 at the top of stilling compartment 519 through outlet port 525 .
- Two features of this embodiment of the present invention are (1) the maintenance of a high level of oxygen content in two of the compartments, and (2) the virtually complete elimination of sludge in mix liquor compartment 517 . Because of these significant advantages, the overall size of system 511 is much smaller than conventional wastewater processing and treatment devices.
- the tank of system 511 has a height of approximately 46 inches, and a height of approximately 50 inches when measured to the top of the ports 512 . This depth is approximately 36 inches less than conventional units and offers a significant savings in earth excavation costs.
- FIG. 7 still another embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system 611 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.
- System 611 is very similar to system 511 ( FIG. 6 ), except that the partition 563 in system 511 is replaced by a funnel 663 (e.g., a conical funnel) in system 611 .
- funnel 663 extends from the bottom of lid 610 to near the bottom of mix liquor compartment 617 . Every other component of system 611 is substantially identical to those described above for the previous embodiment.
- the interior of funnel 663 forms a stilling compartment 619 .
- Exit port 625 extends from an exterior of tank 614 to stilling compartment 619 .
- air is thoroughly blended into the liquid and suspended solids to produce oxygenated effluent (indicated by arrows 654 ).
- the oxygenated effluent circulates up through an opening at the bottom of funnel 663 into stilling compartment 619 , where the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in the solution or treated effluent (indicated by arrow 656 ) have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge from system 611 . If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in stilling compartment 619 . Once any heavier particles have settled, the treated effluent 656 then exits the system 611 near the top of stilling compartment 619 through outlet port 625 .
- BOD biological oxygen demand
- TSS total suspended solids
- a wastewater processing and treatment system constructed in accordance with the present invention utilizes aerobic bacteria in two separate compartments to break down and digest waste. This system is much more efficient than those that use the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria.
- the first settling compartment is non-existent on other conventional aerobic units.
- the first settling compartment allows for settling of heavy particles and keeps floating debris out of the circulating pump that is located in the mix liquor compartment.
- 100% of the liquid in one embodiment, is blended with air several times per hour, again tremendously increasing the efficiency and performance of the overall unit.
- the intakes on the horizontal base pipe at the bottom of the mix liquor compartment allow the pump to remove sludge build-up, which is a significant problem on all other conventional aerobic treatment units.
- the spin filter removes all particles larger than 200 microns from the mix liquor compartment. No particles of a significant size can remain in this compartment without being filtered and blended with air.
- Oxygen being heavier than H2O, settles to the bottom of the tank.
- This concentration of oxygen as high as 90% dissolved, in one embodiment, inhibits the development of sludge at the bottom of the tank.
- Sludge is generally made of organic particles that settle to the bottom and anaerobic bacteria.
- the oxygen present in the bottom of the tank allows the aerobic bacteria to multiply and consume the organic particles and the anaerobic bacteria. Therefore the present aerobic unit will have a minimal amount of sludge build up.
Landscapes
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
- Microbiology (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Purification Treatments By Anaerobic Or Anaerobic And Aerobic Bacteria Or Animals (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present patent application is a continuation-in-part patent application based on International Patent Application No. PCT/U.S. 2003/12522, entitled, Aerobic Wastewater Management System and Method, filed Apr. 25, 2003, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- 1. Technical Field
- The present invention relates in general to an improved system for processing wastewater, and in particular to an improved aerobic system and method for processing and managing wastewater effluent.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- The treatment of wastewater, whether for purposes of recycling or prior to its discharge into treatment works, rivers, lakes, groundwater suppliers, etc., is an ever-increasing problem. To date, three general classes of methods for removing contaminating organic substances from wastewater, such as sewage, have been developed. These are chemical treatments, biological treatments, and physical treatments.
- Biological treatments have been used in a wide variety of applications. Generally, the treatment involves contacting wastewater with a consortium (community) of microorganisms that utilize dissolved organic substances as nutrients. During the biological treatment, three main activities occur: reduction of biological oxygen demand (B.O.D reduction), nitrification and denitrification of the organic waste. All three processes are affected by bacteria, the former two—by aerobic bacteria, and the latter—by anaerobic (anoxic) bacteria.
- In the various reactors for biological treatment of sewage, mutual disposition of the biological activities in the overall treatment may be different in that the denitrification stage may be performed before, concurrently or after B.O.D. reduction. When denitrification is performed before B.O.D. reduction and nitrification, this may take place either in a separate reactor or in the area of the main reactor where the raw sewage enters. When denitrification is performed after B.O.D. reduction and nitrification, the system typically requires its supplementation with an additional source of carbon, such as methanol, in order to effect denitrification. When denitrification, B.O.D. reduction and nitrification occur concurrently, in a so called combined system, this system typically comprises alternating aerobic and anaerobic stages in which incremental reduction in the organic carbon and nitrogen content of the sewage is accomplished in each stage. This enables the system to maintain the organic carbon after the B.O.D. reduction stages at a sufficient level for denitrification without adding an additional source of carbon. Systems of this type are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,994,802; 3,945,918; 4,279,753; 4,564,457 and 4,374,730.
- Typically, the combined systems for biological treatment of sewage hitherto known are designed to include the use of aeration and/or agitation means during the aerobic stage of the treatment for the purpose of reduction of the time required for nitrification. Nearly all prior art sewage purification systems require that sooner or later the system be closed down to allow removal of sludge that has not been fully treated and has accumulated in the processing vessels. Large municipal treatment plants have the equipment and personnel to carry out this work. However, small-scale systems intended for the use of a single house or housing blocks are better served by arrangements that almost completely dispose of organic solids and so do not require such servicing.
- Methods and apparatus for treating domestic effluents are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,172,034 (Carlsson, et al); U.S. Pat. No. 4,812,237 (Cawley); U.S. Pat. No. 5,114,586 (Humphrey) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,342,523 (Kuwashima). Carlsson describes an apparatus, which operates on an easy-flowing slurry, having a dry solids content of between 1-15%, preferably 5-10%. Such a dilute slurry unnecessarily extends processing time to achieve aerobic degradation in a reaction vessel with aeration; however, the Carlsson apparatus has the advantage of being compact.
- Humphrey discloses a complex sanitation system provided with many vessels, five of which have multiple air entry orifices. The resulting high air consumption necessitates the installation of a large air blower or compressor, leading to high running costs and a noise suppression problem. Another difficulty encountered in the Humphrey system is finding space in a residential building for all the described system components.
- Cawley describes and claims a process for purifying and recycling household wastewaters, comprising the steps of (a) collecting a first wastewater stream from household kitchen sources; (b) anaerobically digesting said first wastewater stream in a first septic tank; (c) collecting a second wastewater stream from household laundry and bathing sources; (d) combining water from steps (b), (c) and (h); (e) anaerobically digesting water from step (d) in a second septic tank; (f) pumping water from step (e) over a biological sand filter under aerobic conditions; (g) pumping biologically filtered water from step (f) through an ultra-filter, thereby separating the biologically filtered water into a retentate stream and a permeate stream; (h) returning said retentate stream to step (d); (i) disinfecting said permeate stream; (j) returning a first portion of said disinfected permeate stream to household laundry and bathing facilities; (k) separating a second portion of said disinfected permeate stream into a low salt portion and a high salt portion; (l) returning said low salt portion to a household kitchen; and (m) disposing of said high salt portion.
- Kuwashima proposes a pair of separator tanks, which are used alternately for separating floating or sedimenting material; the organic material is transferred for aerobic decomposition to a third tank. The device lacks means for breaking up large solids into small particles for efficient decomposition. Although each of these prior art designs are workable, a more effective and efficient means of treating wastewater and sewage would be desirable.
- One embodiment of a wastewater processing and treatment system constructed in accordance with the present invention utilizes aerobic bacteria in two separate compartments to break down and digest waste. This system is much more efficient than those that use the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria. The first settling compartment is non-existent in conventional aerobic units. The first settling compartment allows for settling of heavy particles and keeps floating debris out of the pump that is located in the mix liquor compartment. In one embodiment of the invention, 100% of the liquid is blended with air several times per hour in the mix liquor compartment, again tremendously increasing the efficiency and performance of the overall unit. The pump intakes at the bottom of the mix liquor compartment allow the pump to remove sludge build-up, which is a significant problem on all other conventional aerobic treatment units. No particles of a significant size can remain in the mix liquor compartment without being blended with air.
- As the effluent is blended with air, oxygen is separated from the other gases in the air. Oxygen, being heavier than H2O, settles to the bottom of the tank. This concentration of oxygen, as high as 90% dissolved, inhibits the development of sludge at the bottom of the tank. Sludge is generally made of organic particles that settle to the bottom and anaerobic bacteria. The oxygen present in the bottom of the tank allows the aerobic bacteria to multiply and consume the organic particles and the anaerobic bacteria. Therefore the present aerobic unit will have a minimal amount of sludge build up.
- The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, in view of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, taken in conjunction with the appended claims and the accompanying drawings.
- So that the manner in which the features, advantages and objects of the invention, as well as others which will become apparent, are attained and can be understood in more detail, more particular description of the invention briefly summarized above may be had by reference to the embodiment thereof which is illustrated in the appended drawings, which drawings form a part of this specification. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only a preferred embodiment of the invention and therefore are not to be considered limiting of its scope as the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.
-
FIG. 1 is a sectional side view of a first embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a sectional side view of a second embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a sectional side view of a third embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a sectional side view of a fourth embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is a sectional side view of another embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 7 is a sectional side view of yet another embodiment of an aerobic wastewater management system constructed in accordance with the present invention. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , a first embodiment of an aerobicwastewater management system 11 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.System 11 comprises a generally rectangular tank 14 (e.g., a septic tank) having four side walls, a bottom, and a top withresealable access ports 12. Thetank 14 also has fourcompartments tank 14. Wastewater or sewage, indicated byarrow 21, enterssystem 11 atentry port 23 in a conventional manner and generally flows left to right as it is processed and bio-nutrients are removed, until reclaimed water is produced and exitssystem 11 atexit port 25. The discharge is then distributed in a conventional manner. - As
wastewater 21 enterssystem 11 via attached plumbing (not shown), it contains both organic matter and human waste, which is also known as effluent. The effluent is deposited throughentry port 23 directly into the first compartment, ortrash tank 13. Intrash tank 13, the effluent is initially processed and broken down into suspended solids and liquids, which are partially digested by aerobic bacteria (not shown). Aerobic bacteria, rather than the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria, is used to break down and digest the waste. - The separated sewage (indicated by arrow 31) from
trash tank 13 migrates and enters into the second compartment, which is afirst settling compartment 15, via anopening 30 at the bottom of thefirst partition 32. Infirst settling compartment 15, all heavier solids settle out of the liquid and remain incompartment 15. These solids then continue to undergo digestion by the aerobic bacteria located incompartment 15. The lighter solids, which are still suspended in the liquid (indicated by arrow 33),exit compartment 15 through ahorizontal tube 35 located at the top of thesecond partition 37. -
Tube 35 delivers its contents into avertical pipe 41, which is located in the third compartment, or themix liquor compartment 17. Ahorizontal base pipe 43 is interconnected to the lower end ofvertical pipe 41 to form a T-shaped union. As shown inFIG. 2 ,base pipe 43 rests on the floor ofmix liquor compartment 17 and generally extends from side wall to side wall insidemix liquor compartment 17 ofsystem 11.Base pipe 43 has a plurality of apertures 45 that face the floor ofcompartment 17. Ideally, there are four symmetrically spaced-apart apertures 45 inbase pipe 43. The design of this intake system contributes to prevent an accumulation of sludge at the bottom ofmix liquor compartment 17, such that only a very small residual amount of sludge (approximately 2% or less by volume in the mix liquor compartment, in one embodiment) is ever present incompartment 17. This is a very significant improvement over prior art systems, which typically have a sludge presence of approximately 20%. - A
pump 47 is located at the upper end ofpipe 41 and draws in all liquids and suspended solids from withincompartment 17 andtube 35. The contents ofcompartment 17 circulate up through apertures 45 intopipe 41 andpump 47.Pump 47 circulates the liquids and suspended solids through aspin filter 49 to further separate any solids larger than 200 microns. Air is blended into the filtrated liquid and suspended solids via anair intake device 51 wherein they are thoroughly blended with air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside ofsystem 11. A portion (approximately 30% in one embodiment) of this blended mixture of suspended solids, liquid, and air, also known as aerated precipitate, is discharged into thetrash tank 13 via ahose 53. The introduction air intotrash tank 13 viahose 53 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic solids, as described above. - The remaining portion of the filtered flow from the
spin filter 49, which was not discharged intotrash tank 13, is then thoroughly blended with air via a second air intake device 55, which again is drawn from outside thesystem 11. This blend of liquid, suspended solids, and air, also known as the aerated filtrate, is discharged back into themix liquor compartment 17 through atube 57. The introduction of air intocompartment 17 viatube 57 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic material, again virtually eliminating the presence of sludge incompartment 17. - All of the liquid and suspended solids in
mix liquor compartment 17 are continuously pulled intopump 47 from the bottom ofcompartment 17 and circulated with air from theair intake device 51, thereby blending with air several times per hour. This process of mixing aerobic bacteria, air, and effluent increases the bacterial digestion of the organic solids. By drawing the liquid and solids from the bottom ofcompartment 17, forcing them through thespin filter 49, and aeration, the build-up of sludge incompartment 17 is eliminated. - After being processed through
trash tank 13,first settling compartment 15, and mixliquor compartment 17, the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge fromsystem 11. The liquid flows from the bottom ofcompartment 17, through anopening 61 inpartition 63, and into a second settling compartment or stillingcompartment 19. If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in this compartment and return tocompartment 17 by gravity feed viaincline 65, where they will be re-introduced into the treatment process throughbase pipe 43. Once any heavier particles have settled, the liquid then exits thesystem 11 at the top of stillingcompartment 19 throughoutlet port 25. - Two features of this embodiment of the present invention are (1) the maintenance of a high level of oxygen content in two of the compartments (
trash tank 13 and mix liquor compartment 17), and (2) the virtually complete elimination of sludge inmix liquor compartment 17. Because of these significant advantages, the overall size ofsystem 11 is much smaller than conventional wastewater processing and treatment devices.System 11 is buried in earth at a depth of approximately 46 inches. This depth is approximately 36 inches less than conventional units and offers a significant savings in earth excavation costs. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , a second embodiment of an aerobicwastewater management system 111 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.System 111 is very similar to the previously describedsystem 11, except for two variations:system 111 does not have a spin filter, and there is no aeration intrash tank 113. Instead,system 111 blends air into the unfiltrated liquid and suspended solids via a singleair intake device 155 wherein they are thoroughly blended with air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside ofsystem 111. No portion of this blended mixture of suspended solids, liquid, and air, also known as aerated precipitate, is discharged into thetrash tank 113. Instead, all of the aerated precipitate is discharged back into themix liquor compartment 117 through a tube 157. The introduction of air intocompartment 17 viatube 57 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digest organic material, which virtually eliminates the presence of sludge incompartment 117. The other elements ofsystem 111 work in the same manner as those described above forsystem 11. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , a third embodiment of an aerobicwastewater management system 211 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.System 211 is most similar to the previously describedsystem 11, except for one variation:system 211 does not have a first settling compartment between itstrash tank 213 and itsmix liquor compartment 217. Instead,system 211 draws effluent directly fromtrash tank 213, via anelongated tube 235 with a vertical conduit extending from the lower end oftrash tank 213, directly intopipe 241 and pump 247. The other elements ofsystem 211, including the pumping, circulation, aeration, and discharge, work in the same manner as those described above forsystem 11. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , a fourth embodiment of an aerobicwastewater management system 411 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.System 411 comprises a generally rectangular tank 414 with fourcompartments access ports 412 a, b, c are located on top of the tank 414.Port 412 a provides access tocompartments port 412 b provides access tocompartment 417, andport 412 c provides access tocompartment 419. Wastewater or sewage, indicated byarrow 421, enterssystem 411 atentry port 423 in a conventional manner and, as depicted inFIG. 5 , generally flows from left to right as it is processed and bio-nutrients are removed, until reclaimed water is produced and exitssystem 411 atexit port 425. The discharge is then distributed in a conventional manner. - As
wastewater 421 enterssystem 411 via attached plumbing (not shown), it contains both organic matter and human waste, which is also known as effluent. The untreated effluent is deposited throughentry port 423 directly into the first compartment, ortrash tank 413. Intrash tank 413, the effluent is initially processed and broken down into suspended solids and liquids, which are partially digested by aerobic bacteria (not shown). Aerobic bacteria, rather than the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria, are used to break down and digest the waste. - The separated sewage (indicated by arrow 431) from
trash tank 413 migrates and enters into the second compartment, which is afirst settling compartment 415, via anopening 430 at the bottom of thefirst partition 432. Infirst settling compartment 415, all heavier solids settle out of the liquid and remain incompartment 415. These solids then continue to undergo digestion by the aerobic bacteria located incompartment 415. The lighter solids, which are still suspended in the liquid (indicated by arrow 433),exit compartment 415 through aconduit 435 located near the top of thesecond partition 437. In the embodiment shown,conduit 435 comprises a horizontal pipe with a 90 degree elbow on one end that protrudes down into thefirst settling compartment 415. Anair hole 439 is formed in the elbow ofconduit 435. -
Conduit 435 delivers its contents into a reservoir 441 (e.g., a large vertically-oriented pipe), which is located in the third compartment, or themix liquor compartment 417. An optional horizontal base pipe (not shown, but described above in a previous embodiment) may be joined to the lower end of 441 to form a T-shaped union. Reservoir 441 (and/or the base pipe) has a plurality ofapertures 445 that face the floor of themix liquor compartment 417. The design of this intake system contributes to prevent an accumulation of sludge at the bottom ofmix liquor compartment 417, such that only a very small residual amount of sludge (approximately 2% or less by volume of the mix liquor compartment, in one embodiment) is ever present inmix liquor compartment 417. - A
pump 447, such as a centrifugal pump, is located inside thereservoir 441 near its lower end adjacent to apertures 445. Typically, electrical power is provided tosystem 411 throughriser 412 b. Pump 447 draws in all liquids and suspended solids (indicated by arrows 444) from the bottom ofmix liquor compartment 417 and the liquid 433 fromconduit 435. The contents 444 ofmix liquor compartment 417 circulate throughapertures 445 intoreservoir 441 and up throughpump 447.Pump 447 circulates the liquids and suspendedsolids 433, 444 through anaeration device 450, such as a venturi aeration device. Air is thoroughly blended into the liquid and suspended solids to produce oxygenated effluent (indicated by arrows 454). Anair intake device 451 is provided for supplying oxygen to theaeration device 450. In one embodiment,air intake device 451 comprises a hose that extends fromport 412 b down intoreservoir 441 and toaeration device 450 to provide air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside ofsystem 411. - The oxygenated
effluent 454 of suspended solids, liquid, and air, also known as aerated precipitate, flows out ofaeration device 450 into apipe 452 that is also located withinreservoir 441. A portion (approximately 30%, in one embodiment) of the oxygenatedeffluent 454 is discharged into thetrash tank 413 via aconduit 453. The introduction of air intotrash tank 413 viaconduit 453 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic solids, as described above. - The bulk of the oxygenated
effluent 454 flowing through pipe 452 (which was not discharged into trash tank 413) is discharged back into themix liquor compartment 417 through aconduit 457. The introduction of air intocompartment 417 viaconduit 457 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic material, again virtually eliminating the presence of sludge incompartment 417. In one embodiment, the ends of bothconduits effluent 454 into theirrespective compartments 413, 317. - All of the liquid and suspended solids in
mix liquor compartment 417 are continuously pulled intopump 447 from the bottom ofcompartment 417 and circulated with air from theair intake device 451, thereby blending with air several times per hour. This process of mixing aerobic bacteria, air, and effluent increases the bacterial digestion of the organic solids. By drawing the liquid and solids from the bottom ofcompartment 417 and aerating them, the build-up of sludge incompartment 417 is eliminated. - After being processed through
trash tank 413,first settling compartment 415, and mixliquor compartment 417, the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in the solution or treated effluent (indicated by arrow 456) have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge fromsystem 411. The treatedeffluent 456 flows from the bottom ofcompartment 417, through anopening 461 inpartition 463, and into a second settling compartment or stillingcompartment 419. If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in this compartment, which, optionally, may be provided with an incline (not shown) as described above for the previous embodiments. Once any heavier particles have settled, the treatedeffluent 456 then exits thesystem 411 at the top of stillingcompartment 419 throughoutlet port 425. - Two features of this embodiment of the present invention are (1) the maintenance of a high level of oxygen content in two of the compartments (
trash tank 413 and mix liquor compartment 417), and (2) the virtually complete elimination of sludge inmix liquor compartment 417. Because of these significant advantages, the overall size ofsystem 411 is much smaller than conventional wastewater processing and treatment devices. The tank 414 ofsystem 411 has a height of approximately 46 inches, and a height of approximately 50 inches when measured to the top of the ports 412. This depth is approximately 36 inches less than conventional units and offers a significant savings in earth excavation costs. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , another embodiment of an aerobicwastewater management system 511 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.System 511 comprises a generally rectangular tank having fourcompartments access ports 512 a, b, c are located on top of the tank.Port 512 a provides access tocompartments port 512 b provides access tocompartment 517, andport 512 c provides access tocompartment 519. Wastewater or sewage, indicated byarrow 521, enterssystem 511 atentry port 523 in a conventional manner and generally flows from left to right as it is processed and bio-nutrients are removed, until reclaimed water is produced and exitssystem 511 atexit port 525. The discharge is then distributed in a conventional manner. - As
wastewater 521 enterssystem 511 via attached plumbing (not shown), it contains both organic matter and human waste, which is also known as effluent. The untreated effluent is deposited throughentry port 523 directly into the first compartment, ortrash tank 513. Intrash tank 513, the effluent is initially processed and broken down into suspended solids and liquids, which are partially digested by aerobic bacteria (not shown). Aerobic bacteria, rather than the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria, are used to break down and digest the waste. - The separated sewage (indicated by arrow 531) from
trash tank 513 migrates and enters into the second compartment, which is afirst settling compartment 515, via one ormore openings 530 at the bottom of thefirst partition 532. Infirst settling compartment 515, all heavier solids settle out of the liquid and remain incompartment 515. These solids then continue to undergo digestion by the aerobic bacteria located incompartment 515. The lighter solids, which are still suspended in the liquid (indicated by arrow 533),exit compartment 515 through anopening 535 located near the middle of thesecond partition 537, but submerged in the liquid. -
Liquids 533 flows throughopening 535 into the third compartment, or themix liquor compartment 517, where it is drawn downward toward apump 547. A base pipe with optional apertures (described above for previous embodiments) may be used as well. The design of this intake system contributes to prevent an accumulation of sludge at the bottom ofmix liquor compartment 517, such that only a very small residual amount of sludge (approximately 2% or less by volume of the mix liquor compartment, in one embodiment) is ever present inmix liquor compartment 517. - The pump 547 (e.g., a centrifugal pump) is located near the bottom of
mix liquor compartment 517. Pump 547 draws inliquids 533, and liquids and suspended solids (indicated by arrows 544) from the bottom ofmix liquor compartment 517. Thecontents 544 ofmix liquor compartment 517 circulate up throughpump 547.Pump 547 circulates the liquids and suspendedsolids aeration device 550, such as a venturi aeration device. Air is thoroughly blended into the liquid and suspended solids to produce oxygenated effluent (indicated by arrows 554). Anair intake device 551 is provided for supplying oxygen to theaeration device 550. Theair intake device 551 may comprise a hose that extends fromport 512 b down toaeration device 550 to provide air that has been drawn from the ambient atmosphere outside ofsystem 511. - The oxygenated
effluent 554 of suspended solids, liquid, and air, also known as aerated precipitate, flows out ofaeration device 550 into apipe 552. A portion (approximately 30%, in one embodiment) of the oxygenatedeffluent 554 is discharged intosettling compartment 515 via aconduit 553. The introduction of air intosettling compartment 515 viaconduit 553 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic solids, as described above. - The bulk of the oxygenated
effluent 554 flowing through pipe 552 (which was not discharged into settling compartment 515) is discharged back into themix liquor compartment 517 through aconduit 557. The introduction of air intocompartment 517 viaconduit 557 facilitates the growth of aerobic bacteria that digests organic material, again virtually eliminating the presence of sludge incompartment 517. In one embodiment, the ends of bothconduits effluent 554 into theirrespective compartments - All of the liquid and suspended solids in
mix liquor compartment 517 are continuously pulled intopump 547 fromcompartment 517 and circulated with air from theair intake device 551, thereby blending with air several times per hour. This process of mixing aerobic bacteria, air, and effluent increases the bacterial digestion of the organic solids. By drawing the liquid and solids fromcompartment 517 and aerating them, the build-up of sludge incompartment 517 is eliminated. - After being processed through
trash tank 513,first settling compartment 515, and mixliquor compartment 517, the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in the solution or treated effluent (indicated by arrow 556) have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge fromsystem 511. The treatedeffluent 556 flows from the bottom ofcompartment 517, through anopening 561 inpartition 563, and into a second settling compartment or stillingcompartment 519. If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in this compartment, which, optionally, may be provided with an incline (not shown) as described above for the previous embodiments. Once any heavier particles have settled, the treatedeffluent 556 then exits thesystem 511 at the top of stillingcompartment 519 throughoutlet port 525. - Two features of this embodiment of the present invention are (1) the maintenance of a high level of oxygen content in two of the compartments, and (2) the virtually complete elimination of sludge in
mix liquor compartment 517. Because of these significant advantages, the overall size ofsystem 511 is much smaller than conventional wastewater processing and treatment devices. The tank ofsystem 511 has a height of approximately 46 inches, and a height of approximately 50 inches when measured to the top of the ports 512. This depth is approximately 36 inches less than conventional units and offers a significant savings in earth excavation costs. - Referring now to
FIG. 7 , still another embodiment of an aerobicwastewater management system 611 constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown.System 611 is very similar to system 511 (FIG. 6 ), except that thepartition 563 insystem 511 is replaced by a funnel 663 (e.g., a conical funnel) insystem 611. In the embodiment shown, funnel 663 extends from the bottom oflid 610 to near the bottom ofmix liquor compartment 617. Every other component ofsystem 611 is substantially identical to those described above for the previous embodiment. - The interior of
funnel 663 forms astilling compartment 619.Exit port 625 extends from an exterior oftank 614 to stillingcompartment 619. As described above, air is thoroughly blended into the liquid and suspended solids to produce oxygenated effluent (indicated by arrows 654). The oxygenated effluent circulates up through an opening at the bottom offunnel 663 intostilling compartment 619, where the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids (TSS) in the solution or treated effluent (indicated by arrow 656) have been reduced to a level that is safe for discharge fromsystem 611. If any heavy particles remain in the liquid, they will settle out in stillingcompartment 619. Once any heavier particles have settled, the treatedeffluent 656 then exits thesystem 611 near the top of stillingcompartment 619 throughoutlet port 625. - The present invention has several advantages. A wastewater processing and treatment system constructed in accordance with the present invention utilizes aerobic bacteria in two separate compartments to break down and digest waste. This system is much more efficient than those that use the much slower acting anaerobic bacteria. The first settling compartment is non-existent on other conventional aerobic units. The first settling compartment allows for settling of heavy particles and keeps floating debris out of the circulating pump that is located in the mix liquor compartment. In the mix liquor compartment, 100% of the liquid, in one embodiment, is blended with air several times per hour, again tremendously increasing the efficiency and performance of the overall unit. The intakes on the horizontal base pipe at the bottom of the mix liquor compartment allow the pump to remove sludge build-up, which is a significant problem on all other conventional aerobic treatment units. In addition, the spin filter removes all particles larger than 200 microns from the mix liquor compartment. No particles of a significant size can remain in this compartment without being filtered and blended with air.
- As the effluent is blended with air, oxygen is separated from the other gases in the air. Oxygen, being heavier than H2O, settles to the bottom of the tank. This concentration of oxygen, as high as 90% dissolved, in one embodiment, inhibits the development of sludge at the bottom of the tank. Sludge is generally made of organic particles that settle to the bottom and anaerobic bacteria. The oxygen present in the bottom of the tank allows the aerobic bacteria to multiply and consume the organic particles and the anaerobic bacteria. Therefore the present aerobic unit will have a minimal amount of sludge build up.
- While the invention has been shown or described in only some of its forms, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is not so limited, but is susceptible to various changes without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the components and features described for each embodiment may be used interchangeably between and/or added to the other embodiments. Moreover, some elements of the present invention may be relocated to different compartments and, in some embodiments, may be located external to the tank.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/035,209 US7018536B2 (en) | 2003-04-23 | 2005-01-13 | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
PCT/US2006/001205 WO2006083522A1 (en) | 2005-01-13 | 2006-01-12 | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2003/012522 WO2003091168A1 (en) | 2002-04-25 | 2003-04-23 | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
US11/035,209 US7018536B2 (en) | 2003-04-23 | 2005-01-13 | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2003/012522 Continuation-In-Part WO2003091168A1 (en) | 2002-04-25 | 2003-04-23 | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20050126995A1 true US20050126995A1 (en) | 2005-06-16 |
US7018536B2 US7018536B2 (en) | 2006-03-28 |
Family
ID=34651905
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/035,209 Expired - Fee Related US7018536B2 (en) | 2003-04-23 | 2005-01-13 | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US7018536B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006083522A1 (en) |
Cited By (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050242044A1 (en) * | 2004-05-03 | 2005-11-03 | Weldon Couch | System, method, and apparatus for disinfecting wastewater systems |
US20080035539A1 (en) * | 2006-08-11 | 2008-02-14 | Chaffin Mark N | Pressurized wastewater effluent chlorination system |
WO2009093991A2 (en) * | 2008-01-24 | 2009-07-30 | Alexandr Teterja | Method and apparatus for the purification of waste water with the sequence of accumulating container, three biological reactors and apparatus for the afterpurification |
ITBO20090280A1 (en) * | 2009-05-07 | 2010-11-08 | Roberto Amadori | PLANT FOR FLUID TREATMENT. |
CN102268246A (en) * | 2011-06-14 | 2011-12-07 | 邯郸君强矿山科技有限公司 | Special concrete additive for shafts |
WO2013007183A1 (en) * | 2011-07-14 | 2013-01-17 | Lo Limited | System for decomposition of organic compounds and method of operation thereof |
CN107082546A (en) * | 2017-06-08 | 2017-08-22 | 张花枝 | A kind of septic tank controlling device and its application method |
US11247924B2 (en) * | 2016-05-16 | 2022-02-15 | Dan Van Truong | Apparatus for treating wastewater and a system for collecting and treating wastewater combining rainwater drainage |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070221574A1 (en) * | 2006-03-27 | 2007-09-27 | Weldon Couch | System, method, and apparatus for aeration and processing waste in aerobic wastewater management |
US7767088B2 (en) * | 2006-12-05 | 2010-08-03 | Jet, Inc. | Water treatment clarifier baffle |
CA2630328A1 (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2009-11-02 | Richard Ladouceur | Liquid aeration apparatus and wastewater treatment apparatus |
WO2010062724A2 (en) * | 2008-11-02 | 2010-06-03 | Nobska Technologies, Inc | Water treatment systems with communications network links and methods |
US8202432B2 (en) * | 2009-06-24 | 2012-06-19 | King Abdulaziz University | Wastewater treatment system |
US11578480B2 (en) * | 2017-01-30 | 2023-02-14 | Oldcastle Precast Inc. | Grease interceptor and method of use thereof |
Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3713543A (en) * | 1968-09-23 | 1973-01-30 | Dravo Corp | Activated sewage plant |
US3837494A (en) * | 1972-08-16 | 1974-09-24 | B Stevenson | Sewage treatment apparatus |
US4092249A (en) * | 1976-06-21 | 1978-05-30 | Commanche Engineering Corp. | Sewage treatment device |
US5454949A (en) * | 1994-01-03 | 1995-10-03 | Davis; Harold E. | Sewage treatment system and method |
US5484524A (en) * | 1993-02-01 | 1996-01-16 | Jet, Inc. | Wastewater treatment apparatus |
US5647986A (en) * | 1994-12-02 | 1997-07-15 | Nawathe; Dilip | Apparatus and process for distributed treatment of wastewater |
US5667689A (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1997-09-16 | Norwalk Wastewater Equipment Company | Method of augmenting flow in a wastewater treatment plant |
US5674399A (en) * | 1995-06-05 | 1997-10-07 | Davis; Harold E. | Sewage treatment method |
US6123846A (en) * | 1998-02-16 | 2000-09-26 | Nec Corporation | Activated-sludge processing apparatus and method for control of sludge to be returned |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB587400A (en) * | 1943-04-21 | 1947-04-24 | Infilco Inc | Improvements in or relating to process of and apparatus for treating sewage and other waste liquors |
BE794121A (en) * | 1972-01-20 | 1973-07-16 | Air Prod & Chem | WASTEWATER |
GB1457405A (en) * | 1972-11-20 | 1976-12-01 | Todd J J | Variable load sewage treatment vessels |
US4961854A (en) * | 1988-06-30 | 1990-10-09 | Envirex Inc. | Activated sludge wastewater treatment process |
US5451316A (en) * | 1993-02-19 | 1995-09-19 | Allen; Douglas M. | Aerobic sewage treatment system |
US5624563A (en) * | 1995-08-25 | 1997-04-29 | Hawkins; John C. | Process and apparatus for an activated sludge treatment of wastewater |
SE510986C3 (en) | 1997-11-12 | 1999-08-23 | Aqua Equipment Co Ab | Procedure causes dewatering of sludge in a mobile dewatering unit so that a retained microflora is recovered and such a mobile dewatering unit |
NZ536613A (en) * | 2002-04-25 | 2006-04-28 | Weldon Couch | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method |
-
2005
- 2005-01-13 US US11/035,209 patent/US7018536B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2006
- 2006-01-12 WO PCT/US2006/001205 patent/WO2006083522A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3713543A (en) * | 1968-09-23 | 1973-01-30 | Dravo Corp | Activated sewage plant |
US3837494A (en) * | 1972-08-16 | 1974-09-24 | B Stevenson | Sewage treatment apparatus |
US4092249A (en) * | 1976-06-21 | 1978-05-30 | Commanche Engineering Corp. | Sewage treatment device |
US5484524A (en) * | 1993-02-01 | 1996-01-16 | Jet, Inc. | Wastewater treatment apparatus |
US5454949A (en) * | 1994-01-03 | 1995-10-03 | Davis; Harold E. | Sewage treatment system and method |
US5647986A (en) * | 1994-12-02 | 1997-07-15 | Nawathe; Dilip | Apparatus and process for distributed treatment of wastewater |
US5667689A (en) * | 1995-03-06 | 1997-09-16 | Norwalk Wastewater Equipment Company | Method of augmenting flow in a wastewater treatment plant |
US5674399A (en) * | 1995-06-05 | 1997-10-07 | Davis; Harold E. | Sewage treatment method |
US6123846A (en) * | 1998-02-16 | 2000-09-26 | Nec Corporation | Activated-sludge processing apparatus and method for control of sludge to be returned |
Cited By (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050242044A1 (en) * | 2004-05-03 | 2005-11-03 | Weldon Couch | System, method, and apparatus for disinfecting wastewater systems |
US20080035539A1 (en) * | 2006-08-11 | 2008-02-14 | Chaffin Mark N | Pressurized wastewater effluent chlorination system |
US7892422B2 (en) | 2006-08-11 | 2011-02-22 | Chaffin Mark N | Pressurized wastewater effluent chlorination system |
WO2009093991A3 (en) * | 2008-01-24 | 2009-10-08 | Alexandr Teterja | Method and apparatus for the purification of waste water with the sequence of accumulating container, three biological reactors and apparatus for the afterpurification |
WO2009093991A2 (en) * | 2008-01-24 | 2009-07-30 | Alexandr Teterja | Method and apparatus for the purification of waste water with the sequence of accumulating container, three biological reactors and apparatus for the afterpurification |
ITBO20090280A1 (en) * | 2009-05-07 | 2010-11-08 | Roberto Amadori | PLANT FOR FLUID TREATMENT. |
WO2010128476A1 (en) * | 2009-05-07 | 2010-11-11 | Davide Fioralli | Fluid treatment plant |
CN102268246A (en) * | 2011-06-14 | 2011-12-07 | 邯郸君强矿山科技有限公司 | Special concrete additive for shafts |
WO2013007183A1 (en) * | 2011-07-14 | 2013-01-17 | Lo Limited | System for decomposition of organic compounds and method of operation thereof |
CN103648987A (en) * | 2011-07-14 | 2014-03-19 | 罗国基 | System for decomposition of organic compounds and method of operation thereof |
RU2595670C9 (en) * | 2011-07-14 | 2017-02-03 | Квок Ки ЛО | System for decomposition of organic compounds and operating method thereof |
US9845255B2 (en) | 2011-07-14 | 2017-12-19 | Kwok Ki Lo | System for decomposition of organic compounds and method of operation |
US11247924B2 (en) * | 2016-05-16 | 2022-02-15 | Dan Van Truong | Apparatus for treating wastewater and a system for collecting and treating wastewater combining rainwater drainage |
CN107082546A (en) * | 2017-06-08 | 2017-08-22 | 张花枝 | A kind of septic tank controlling device and its application method |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7018536B2 (en) | 2006-03-28 |
WO2006083522A1 (en) | 2006-08-10 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7018536B2 (en) | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method | |
JP4801256B2 (en) | Surge anoxic mixed continuous batch reaction system | |
WO2009033271A1 (en) | Apparatus for waste water treatment | |
JPH06102196B2 (en) | Wastewater treatment equipment | |
US7022237B2 (en) | Aerobic wastewater management system, apparatus, and method | |
KR101003162B1 (en) | Stock raising onsite wastewater treatment apparatus | |
US20070221574A1 (en) | System, method, and apparatus for aeration and processing waste in aerobic wastewater management | |
US7820048B2 (en) | Method and system for treating organically contaminated waste water | |
CN108975632A (en) | A kind of integration distributing high-efficiency wastewater treatment system | |
JP2006289153A (en) | Method of cleaning sewage and apparatus thereof | |
JPH10118686A (en) | Aeration tank of organic wastewater and aeration treatment apparatus using the same | |
CN106746357A (en) | A kind of sewage-treatment plant | |
CN213327183U (en) | Public toilet sewage integrated treatment system | |
KR102058822B1 (en) | Waste water treatment apparatus | |
HU230285B1 (en) | Modified continuos flow sequencing batch reactor and a method for treating waste water | |
KR101991867B1 (en) | Sewage treatment device and treatment method using microorganism and magnetic material | |
JPS60193596A (en) | Treating apparatus of sewage | |
JPS58128195A (en) | Septic tank of hardly disposable sewage of night soil | |
UA87613C2 (en) | Process for treatment of wastewater (variants) and device for implementation thereof (variants), wastewater collection bowl and device for additional treatment of wastewater | |
KR101180338B1 (en) | a sewage disposal plant | |
JPH09108672A (en) | Parallel two-stage membrane separation type septic tank | |
CN212894377U (en) | Domestic sewage treatment equipment | |
KR200410464Y1 (en) | Living sewage treatment system | |
CN213475689U (en) | Sewage sludge treatment system | |
KR102305433B1 (en) | Hybrid Bioreactor, Apparatus and Operating Method for Wastewater Treatment of Cleaning Water in Milking using the Bioreactor |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: PROLINE WASTEWATER EQUIPMENT, LLC, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:COUCH, WELDON;REEL/FRAME:016178/0988 Effective date: 20050105 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
REMI | Maintenance fee reminder mailed | ||
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY Free format text: PAYER NUMBER DE-ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: RMPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY |
|
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees | ||
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
|
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20140328 |